Commencement will take place on Saturday, May 18, 2019 beginning at 11:00 am and ending by 1:30 pm in the quadrangle next to the gymnasium at the Haverhill Campus.

Please note: Individuals who graduated in August 2018, December 2018, and those who have petitioned for May 2019, and August 2019 are encouraged to participate.

Commencement Day

There is NO rehearsal for Commencement. You must arrive for pre-ceremony activities no later than 10:15 am on May 18, 2019. Report to the Sports and Fitness Center and assemble in the gymnasium by program. Signs will be posted. All guests must be seated by 10:30 am The Processional begins at 11:00 am promptly. All students attending the Commencement ceremony will receive a diploma cover at the ceremony. Your actual diploma will be mailed by July 8th.

Academic Requirements

Spring 2019 grades will not all be processed until after the Commencement ceremony on May 18. Therefore, the final evaluation of your graduation applications will not occur until the beginning of June. Diplomas will be mailed by July 8th to all of those who have met their academic and program requirements, and have maintained a GPA of 2.00 or above.

Honors Status

Students who have petitioned to graduate for May 2019 should be aware that your honors designation, as it appears on the graduation program, is reflective of your final Fall 2018 GPA.

Cap, Gown, Hood and Invitations

The cost of the cap and gown is $25. Your graduation packet, which includes a cap, gown, tassel, hood and invitation, will be available for pick-up at both the Haverhill Campus bookstores only, starting Monday, April 8, 2019. Hoods must be returned following the Commencement Ceremony.

Haverhill Bookstore Hours

Invitations and Guest Seating

One invitation will be given to each student along with a cap, gown, and hood. You and your guests do not need an invitation to attend. However, to ensure seating for all guests, please limit the number of guests that you invite to attend the ceremony. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Guest should be seated by 10:30 am. Students will begin processing into the tent at approximately 11:00 am.

Graduate Photos

Essex Commencement Photos by Hockmeyer Studios will be photographing graduates as they receive their diplomas and as they exit the stage. Information has been mailed to the home address of all potential graduates. There are several package options available to choose from.

After the ceremony a proof photo will be sent to all graduates. Any graduate who did not preorder the photos will have an opportunity to place an order. For additional information or questions, contact Essex Commencement Photos at mail@hockstudio.com or 978-388-9832 or 603-974-0198.

Accommodations / Special Seating

If you or any of your guests require assistance or special seating, please let us know so that we may accommodate you. Please call 978-556-3974.

Please make prior arrangements to have your children accompanied by an adult while attending Commencement.

For more information, please contact Enrollment Services at 978-556-3700.